Over the years, I’ve built a wardrobe of go-to essentials—straight-leg jeans, a white tee, classic flats or boots, a gray cashmere sweater, a blazer, my Prada cat eye sunnies and my slouchy black Proenza tote. My style stays rooted in this core uniform, but each year, I refresh it with easy, mood-boosting pieces that reflect how I’m feeling. I take a high-low approach.

We’re sharing what we’re loving this spring — from the best patios for al fresco dining to stunning gardens to flower-filled escapes. Our contributors highlighted some of their faves in the DMV and perhaps you can add a few more to your own list!

When I saw Elizabeth’s post: “Styled Looks with Veronica Beard” it hit me – I haven’t done an outfit to room article in a long time, so why not give that a go?!  I took three looks from Elizabeth’s Veronica Beard trunk show and threw together the bones of a room. Just imagine family photos, a collection of artwork, treasures collected over time and you essentially have three outfits to a room.

I don’t know about you, but I’m having a really hard time getting dressed this month. I texted Ali of ALH Style and asked her to help get myself and other Stylebook readers motivated. We’re kicking off a five-day Get Dressed Challenge,starting Tues., January 21. Winner will receive a $500 gift card from The Hive and a two-hour session with Ali.

I wandered into AIP when it first reopened. Alex greeted me and sold me one of the best swimsuits I’ve ever owned. I’d never seen anything like it and I’ve  never seen anyone with it. That’s the kind of boutique American in Paris is. She finds all sorts of cool unique pieces for the store while traveling the world. This women’s boutique is more than just a shop—it’s a vibe.

I asked Ali to help style some of the pieces for The Hive’s Veronica Beard Trunk Show, and give them the Ali twist. She always keeps it classic but also puts a bit of a modern spin on it. Check out her three looks with Veronica Beard’s newest arrivals. They made me realize I need that plaid blazer and suede jacket!

After a busy kid-filled summer I made it into Era, Old Town's newest boutique nestled in the heart of Old Town Alexandria. As a wardrobe stylist, I have a different point of view when it comes to shopping because I'm not typically there browsing for myself. If you see me around town I'm typically shopping and researching for clients.

There’s no better place to share how to shop like a pro than in our beloved town of Alexandria, so I thought I’d kick off a little series in which I give you very specific ways to shop at each of our local boutiques. Let’s begin with The Hive…

Fashion isn’t about dressing in head-to-toe designer or only wearing the most luxurious things you can find—it’s about expressing who you are.